Jansen Panettiere's family confirm his cause of death was 'enlarged heart'

The family of Jansen Panettiere has confirmed that he died last week as a result of an 'enlarged heart'.

Panettiere, who was the brother of Nashville star, Hayden Panettiere, was found dead at his apartment in Nyack, New York on 19 February, at just 28 years old.

The Orangetown Police Department responded to the scene shortly after 5pm local time, after authorities were called on a report of an 'unresponsive male with CPR in progress', a police report explained.

Minas Keukazian / Alamy Stock Photo

Panettiere was pronounced dead at 5:11pm by a responding EMT, after which his family released a statement to announce his cause of death and pay tribute to their lost loved one.

"Jansen's heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit," the statement began.

"His charisma, warmth, compassion for others, and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered."

The family went on to say he died of an 'enlarged heart'; a finding they said had been confirmed by the Medical Examiner.

"Though it offers little solace, the Medical Examiner reported Jansen's sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications," they said.

"We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss, and ask that we be gifted our privacy during this time of mourning."

Concluding their statement, the family said: "We love you so much Jansen and you will be in our hearts forever."

AFF / Alamy Stock Photo

Panettiere was found at his apartment by his friend Benjamin Brown, who'd become concerned about Panettiere's wellbeing after he failed to show up to a meeting they had organised.

Police confirmed at the time there were 'no obvious signs of trauma'.

Like his sister, Panettiere was in the acting business and was known for his voice acting roles in Ice Age: The Meltdown and The X's. Throughout his career, he also had roles in Nickelodeon's film The Last Day of Summer and in AMC's The Walking Dead.

Fans of the actor flooded social media with tributes to the young star, with one fan writing: "My heart breaks for the Panettiere family [...] Rest in peace Jansen! We love you."

Panettiere is survived by his and Hayden's parents, Lesley Vogel and Skip Panettiere.